Eyelid Inflammation Blepharitis in Dogs - Causes, Treatment and Associated Conditions

Key takeaways

Blepharitis describes inflammation of the eyelids affecting one or both eyes. Eyelid inflammation is a common presentation in dogs with a variety of underlying triggers.

Dogs with blepharitis present with red, swollen eyes and usually wink or blink repeatedly
Some dogs have discharge from the eyes, and often scratch or rub the affected area along the floor
Blepharitis results from many different disease processes including infection, allergy, eyelid abnormalities, autoimmune disease, injury, or eyelid masses
Investigation of blepharitis aims to identify the underlying trigger and involves physical examination, eye examination, and skin or blood testing
Treatment options include direct treatment of blepharitis, such as anti-inflammatory eye drops, alongside treatment of the underlying trigger
Prognosis varies depending on the underlying cause
Most cases respond to medication but some diseases are recurrent and require long term treatment

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A closer look: Eyelid Inflammation (Blepharitis) in Dogs

Blepharitis is a common, and distressing, presentation in dogs but is not life-threatening.

Blepharitis is a symptom of many different disease processes. Any disease that affects the eye, or the area around the eye, can result in self-induced injury and irritation, leading to blepharitis.

Blepharitis normally requires treatment, and delay in seeking veterinary treatment may result in complications such as severe ocular disease and blindness. Cases of blepharitis require prompt veterinary attention.

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Risk factors

The severity of symptoms of blepharitis is relative to the severity of the underlying trigger. Dogs that persistently itch or rub their eyes on the floor have more severe blepharitis, regardless of the trigger.

Given the wide range of diseases that are associated with blepharitis, any dog may be at risk of developing it. Dogs with predisposing factors for common causes of blepharitis are at highest risk. Senior dogs and young puppies are most at risk of developing diseases associated with blepharitis.

Possible causes

Main symptoms

Testing and diagnosis

Further investigation of blepharitis involves:

Physical examination
Allergy testing
Skin scrapes for parasites
Culture and sensitivity for bacterial infections
Blood work
Biopsy of masses

In addition, a specialized eye exam may include:

Schirmer Tear Test
Fluorescein dye
Ocular pressure measurement

Steps to Recovery

Treatment of blepharitis aims to alleviate the symptoms while addressing the underlying disease process. Medications may include:

Antibiotics
Antifungal
Antiparasitics
Treatment of hormonal conditions where appropriate
Steroids or other anti-itch medication
Anti-inflammatory medications

In addition, supportive care may include:

Hot compresses to reduce swelling
Use of an Elizabethan collar
Routine cleaning of the eye

In some cases, surgery to remove masses may be indicated.

Prognosis varies depending on the underlying cause. Infectious conditions normally resolve with treatment and carry an excellent prognosis, whereas underlying disease such as dry eye normally respond well to treatment but require lifelong therapy.

Prevention

Prevention depends on the underlying disease. Routine use of veterinary approved antiparasitics prevents parasitic blepharitis. Other underlying diseases are spontaneous and cannot be prevented, but prompt veterinary treatment of diseases resulting in ocular irritation or pain may prevent blepharitis from developing. Keeping up with routine checkups and vaccinations helps maximize overall health and aids in early detection of many conditions.